What to Do at SFO

• Boudin (International Terminal, Boarding Area A/B) - the sourdough original is an SFO classic; is it the clam chowder in the bread bowl, or warm-up-the-segout sandwiches- dependable local farewell to a lengthy journey.
• Napa Farms Market (Terminal 2, D Gates Retail Street) - Gourmet deli like market with local produce, sandwiches and coffee, good in place of the normal grab and go.
• Various local cafes throughout the Terminals - You will find local roasters and local menus spread throughout the terminals; just follow the terminal map in order to find the best location which is close to your gate.

• Duty-free and international shopping (International Terminal) - The biggest duty-free concessions are in the International Terminal that is packed with spirits, perfumes and travelling gifts to pull out on international departure.
• Hudson, InMotion, and local shops (Terminals 1-3) - Standard travel necessities, electronics, and Bay Area souvenirs are distributed all over the concourses, smaller boutique shops tend to display local products.

• Centurion / temporary locations & airline clubs — The Centurion presence has shifted during Terminal 3 renovations; other Delta, United and partner lounges remain available across terminals—check access rules in advance.
• Plaza Premium and pay-to-enter lounges — Available in the International Terminal and selected domestic concourses; useful when you don’t have airline lounge access.

• SFO Museum & Aviation Exhibits (International Terminal) — Free galleries, rotating shows and an aviation museum library give layovers cultural weight without leaving the airport.
• SkyTerrace Observation Deck (seasonal/opening may vary) — A rare outdoor view over the airfield for when you want fresh air and a skyline shot. Check SFO site for seasonal openings.
• Yoga rooms, showers and sensory room — Quiet yoga rooms in Terminals 1–3, shower facilities at some lounges, and the Harvey Milk Terminal 1 sensory room help you reset between flights.

(Concessions and exact gate-level offerings change over time—see Sources below for direct concession and terminal listings.)

3-Hour Layover (stay airside)

Take a stroll within the airport facilities: go to a nearby market or cafe, explore a little SFO Museum gallery in the International Terminals, and have a rest in a lounge or a private end of a gate. Allow 45-60 minutes to go back to your gate and clear off loading.

5-6 Hour Layover (quick city loop)

Board an AirTrain on to the Garage/BART station and bring BART into downtown San Francisco (approximately 30 minutes). A rushed coffee in front of Embarcadero or a brisk walk along the Ferry Building will give you a taste of the city- get back with at least 90 minutes of time to spend on ensuring security and checks.

Eight or more hours stopover (half a day in town)

Go to the city by taking BART and visit Fisherman Wharf or the Ferry Building or hire a car and go on a scenic trip to the Golden gate. Add door to gate movement and 3 hours of airport reentering time to prevent rush hour shocks.